249112 Geometric Alignment of the Metatarsal Heads

Tuesday, November 1, 2011: 9:30 AM

Philip Demp, AB, DPM, MA, MS, PhD, CAS, CMath, FIMA , Department of Mathematics, School of Podiatric Medicine, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Temple University, Cinnaminson, NJ
ABSTRACT Background: Alterations in the positions of the metatarsal heads indicate from clinical experience a pathomechanical etiology of a wide range of clinical, chronic conditions. The present investigation uses a mathematical approach that is the only published model of metatarsal geometry that yields a unique parameter (eccentricity) to distinguish the unique alignments of the metatarsal heads.

Methods: From a weight bearing, dorsoplantar radiograph, the positions of the metatarsal heads are converted into Cartesian (points) which show up as one of the following conic type graphs: parabola, hyperbola (with two branches), ellipse

Results: This is the first time that the alignment of metatarsals was identified as a pathomechanical configuration or a healthy configuration. There was an obvious difference between the two configurations. This will mean better diagnosis and treatment. Conclusion: This Study is the first to investigate the relationship between the rectangular Coordinates of the five metatarsal head positions and unique conic type graphs. This will allow one to determine whether a configuration of the metatarsal heads is healthy or pathomechanical. If pathomechanical, then it may be converted into a healthy configuration. This can be done by using Computer Assisted Surgery. Also, public health screening can use these tests to conduct epidemiologic studies.

Learning Areas:
Basic medical science applied in public health
Epidemiology
Systems thinking models (conceptual and theoretical models), applications related to public health

Learning Objectives:
Demonstrate the use of mathematical formula to identify healthy or pathomechanical configuration of metatarsal heads.

Keywords: Statistics, Epidemiology

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Qualified on the content I am responsible for because: I am the author of this information and have the following credentials:AB, DPM, MA, MS, PhD, CAS, CMath, FIMA
Any relevant financial relationships? No

I agree to comply with the American Public Health Association Conflict of Interest and Commercial Support Guidelines, and to disclose to the participants any off-label or experimental uses of a commercial product or service discussed in my presentation.